A method to reduce brain injury caused by chemotherapy in breast cancer survivors
Official title: Neurotrophic strategy to mitigate chemotherapy-related brain injury
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-10922862 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to help breast cancer survivors who are experiencing 'chemobrain'—a common issue that affects thinking and memory after treatment—by exploring a special protein that might help their brains recover and work better again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $476,970 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA276212-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922862 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors who have undergone chemotherapy and are experiencing cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone chemotherapy or those with cognitive impairments due to other causes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing cancer-related cognitive impairment, commonly known as 'chemobrain,' which affects up to 75% of breast cancer survivors. The study investigates the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in restoring cognitive function and normal brain activity after chemotherapy. By exploring regenerative strategies, the research aims to mitigate the cognitive deficits associated with chemotherapy, using both human and animal models to understand the underlying mechanisms. Patients may be involved in trials that assess the effectiveness of these strategies in improving cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve cognitive function and quality of life for breast cancer survivors experiencing chemobrain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that targeting neurotrophic factors like BDNF can lead to improvements in cognitive function, suggesting a promising avenue for this research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Alexandre — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Chan, Alexandre
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.